How can you identify a canister expiration date and what action should you take if expired?

• A. Check the label for "EXP" or "EXP DATE"; do not deploy expired canisters; replace per policy.
• B. Expiration dates are optional; you can deploy expired if necessary.
• C. There is no expiration date on OC spray canisters.
• D. Expiration only matters for training, not deployment.

Answer: (A)

You're tested on recognizing where to find an expiration date and what to do with it. OC canisters usually have an EXP or EXP DATE on the label. That date marks the shelf life during which the spray is guaranteed to perform as intended; after it passes, the propellant and active ingredients can degrade, which can reduce effectiveness and reliability. Because of that, you should never deploy a canister that is expired. Instead, replace it according to your policy and rotate stock so you always have unexpired canisters ready for use. If you find an expired canister, remove it from service and follow the disposal or replacement procedures outlined by your organization, ensuring you obtain a fresh canister before deployment.